Vol. DIY Electronics Projects

Chapter 3 DC Circuit Projects

DC Lab - Introduction

In this series of hands-on electronics experiments, you will build direct current (DC) circuits and learn fundamental electrical engineering circuit concepts.

DC stands for direct current, in which there is a one-directional flow of electric charge. DC can be used to refer to both the voltage and the current in a DC circuit. These DC lab projects are designed to demonstrate important concepts of electricity related to DC circuits. These experiments complement the educational information available in the direct current textbook volume.

Each DC Lab project includes step-by-step instructions, a parts list, schematic diagrams, and illustrations of the completed projects similar to the example of Figure 1.

Using an ammeter to measure current in a lamp circuit.

Figure 1. Using an ammeter to measure current in a lamp circuit.

As shown in this figure, you will also learn how to use standard test equipment to measure current, voltage, and resistance.

The projects are designed to be relatively low-cost, educational, and even fun...like the potato battery experiment illustrated in Figure 2.

Figure 2. Measuring the voltage generated by a potato battery.

Each project includes a list of the parts and materials you will need. These projects are great for educators, students, electronics hobbyists, makers, and anyone who wants to learn about DC electronics.